Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.
The pins of the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the correct gear.
If it’s not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, can aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the keys with an old cloth or using an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.
You could also tap the key with a small hammer, when it’s in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. However, you must be very careful not to damage the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.
If all of the above options fail, it’s likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the car must be taken to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to repair.
Make sure you check the steering Wheel
A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This happens if the driver accidentally engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by yanking on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.
This is a straightforward fix that doesn’t require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it’s not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It’s also crucial to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column will confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small “Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as it could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.
If the new key isn’t engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can help. Just apply a small amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn’t work you, it’s possible to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They’ll be able give you a new key ignition replacement and also replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key is damaged if it will not engage in the ignition and key replacement. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.
It could be that the internal lock pins aren’t moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, put it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, which they should. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into place when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.
It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to stop turning and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you’ll have to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you can turn your car using an extra key, and you have ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of a hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing, you’ll need to have your lock’s cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when inserted. It is often covered in debris or is due to wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
Before you try this, make sure your car’s gearbox is set to neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.
If you have done all of this but can’t get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct steps.
Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that hold it in place.
Once the cover has been removed, you’ll need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one you purchased with the original one to ensure that they are a perfect match. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it’s recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly, so that your Car Ignition lock will be able to start up again.
